About two decades ago, I had the chance to live in Texas as a newly wed journalist. I was granted an F2 visa as a dependent of my husband who had an F1 or a student visa. He was to start his practical training with a law firm after completing his graduate studies in law, [...]

Where does one even begin to tell this complex story? The media’s first-take was actually quite predictable. Start the story by answering the basic questions “who, what, where, when.” This was easily accomplished by most media organizations.

At the core of the debate over WikiLeaks is the question of whether there are absolute rights. Should governments have absolute rights to secrecy, in the same way that individuals should have absolute rights to privacy? On what occasions can the abrogation of those rights be justified?

In the Ampatuan murder trial, there is a clamor for live coverage because distrust of government — or in this specific case, the courts — is high. Dilatory tactics and questionable rulings are common, bribery and intimidation are often part of the behind-the-scenes maneuverings.

Both news and entertainment play crucial roles in a people’s advancement. Too much slapstick and low-level entertainment makes for passive and less critical thinkers. Too much negativity and cynicism in news destroys a people’s ability to take pride in themselves and their country.

The ratings of last Monday’s (November 8 ) primetime newscasts and shows provide us rich insights into the Filipino news viewing audience, the minds of TV networks, and the cozy relationship between media and politics.

The online medium is a playground for any one who dares access it. Anyone who is foolish, reckless, and careless is bound to get it. Post anything incendiary, stupid, or insensitive and you’re sure to feel the wrath and fury of the online world.

The big fuss over the plagiarism issue is not about debasement or persecution of the courts. Rather, it is about watching over the excesses and lapses of justices who, on account of their decisions, can either help fashion new beginnings or simply shatter lives.